"Firefighters together with the sanitary workers are pulling out patients, someone has already arrived in the hospital," Bermano added. "We are working but at this moment we do not yet have the full size of the problem."

A violent storm Tuesday morning preceded the collapse and is being considered as a cause.

Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said anyone found to be responsible for the incident would be held accountable.

"Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and all the Italian people," Macron tweeted. "France is on the side of Italy in this tragedy and stands ready to provide all the necessary support."